What to do off Naples

Perhaps you'd like a relaxing day on board gently looking over to the steam emanating from Vesuvius while sitting back with a small drinkie; or looking over the city or bay. The Bay of Naples is beautiful.

Naples is a beautiful city (the one in Italy). If you have never been, you should visit it. Nearby there are the following interesting places:
Amalfi Coast, Sorrento,Pompeii, Ercolano, Mt. Vesuvius, the islands (Capri, Procida, Ischia) and more.

We really dont want to visit Naples Why not? It's literally an understated gem. I went there alone and met up with some new friends and had a blast. There are tons of things to do there - just look on tripadvisor or get a book and read up on it. It's totally worth visiting.

Many of the Helpline posters will encourage you to visit Naples. I disagree. We've been to Europe more times than I've kept count of, and it's the one place I couldn't wait to leave. Why? Dirty and disorganized. We spent a lot of our time just trying to find our way around. Lots of beggars. Streets filled with trash. In my opinion, the only reason to go is the Archaeological Museum. If you have just a day, take one of Roberto's suggestions.

I went on a cruise about a month ago that stopped in Naples and we spent the day on the island of Capri. It was the highlight of our trip. The most beautiful place I have ever visited. We did a tour to the Blue Grotto and it was absolutely spectacular. You can take a Snav ferry to the island and it costs about 20 euro/person. It's a high speed ferry and gets you there in about 45 minutes. Whatever you decide to do, I hope your trip is wonderful!

How about Herculaneum, Pompeii, or the island of Ischia

We are in Capri right now. Rained yesterday. If NOT raining would recommend Capri. Sun finally came out, but more storms expected.
If beautiful day, go to Capri, if not try The Museum recommended in Naples.

How did you get to Capri from the port? How long does it take? Thanks,
Elaine :)

Oups, I guess somebody else already answered that question....get the best way is to take the ferry over there...takes about 45 minutes for 20E. Whats the blue grotto?
Elaine ;)

Elaine/Rick, just "google" the Blue Grotto, it's beautiful!

Check out the Monte Solaro in Anacapri.

Naples IS a beautiful city but like most any city, there are areas you want to avoid. The food is fabulous and the architecture beautiful. If you decide to stay in Naples, consider a tour of the Naples Underground--very interesting history. If Naples is a no-go, definitely consider Pompeii. It's amazing.

San Carlo Opera House Tour. Not long, but very good. (Walk up the hill.) There are candy shops for crystallized violets (great for gourmet cooks' gifts). Piazza Galleria Umberto.
Yep, there's filth. It reminds me of NYC and DC of about twenty years ago. However, I was able to overlook it there and then, so.... I'm not a clothes shopper, but there's a cheap street and a fine boulevard. It was the 'big city' for Sophia Loren, after all. I wouldn't have gone my first time if I could have avoided it. I lived and learned. The people are so kind and fun.

I spent a week in Naples this past June, and just loved everthing about it. The food is way better than in the central and northern parts of Italy, IMHO; and the people are delightful, kind and helpful. We did not feel unsafe at all. True, they do not have the same civic pride as some other parts of the country; but they make up for it in many other ways. How many hours are you there for? You will be seriously missing out if you don't have a look!! Don't go to any museums; just walk, have coffee in a small bar, (NOT in Cafe Gambrinus, which lives on its now undeserved reputation and makes terrible coffee, with equally bad and indifferent service), have a delicious lunch and a sfogliatelle pastry,check out the short tour of the Opera House, take the funicular up to the old castle/fort on the hill. Enjoy this very vibrant and different city.
I can't wait to go back there!!

We were in Naples last week off of a cruise ship. Spent about half the day at the National Museum which has most of the artifacts from Pompeii. (Had been to Pompeii on an early stop). Saw the Secret room but was disappointed. Then spend the rest of the day walking from the museum to the port. Didn't feel much different than any other big Italy city. Maybe a touch more gritty but not uncomfortable. Didn't see much trash or beggars and believe Roberto is the more accurate description.

Don't miss Naples. Hire a personal guide at least for half a day. You will see what you would be missing. Just don't Nissan Naples!

Traveled all over Italy and having spent a couple days in Naples this summer I would not see it again. I just didn't find it as interesting as other cities in Italy. Good for a day trip. Up the coast Sorrento and Positano are gorgeous.